THE memory of a Kenilworth Lions Club member who died last year will live on in one of the poorest parts of the world - after he helped to raise money to provide people with much-needed water.

Gordon Bates, of Cromwell Lane, Burton Green, learned of the desperate need for water in sub-Saharan Niger, after he and his wife Eileen became friendly with a student from that country through Westwood Parish Church.

He persuaded fellow members to team up with their counterparts in the North Sea Lions - an informal grouping made up of clubs in the Midlands and parts of Europe, including Germany, Holland and Denmark.

Together they raised #77,000 to buy a dozen water wells.

Pauline Hoogerwerf, North Sea Lions Midlands officer, visited Niger earlier this month to see how the project was progressing.

While there she presented a dozen plaques stating that the work had been initiated by Gordon Bates, and that the money had been raised by the North Sea Lions clubs.

Mrs Hoogerwerf said: "Many more wells are needed. But it's a start and some of the money we raised has gone into buying well-drilling equipment."

She said there was ample water in Niger during her visit but it was expected to dry out before the end of this month. When that happens, most people will have to rely on water from polluted streams and ponds.

Mrs Bates said: "I have followed the progress of the wells project. I am delighted with the outcome but saddened that Gordon didn't live to see his dream realised."